Multicultural Action Plan 2017-2020 - Adelaide Hills Council
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Images from Hills Harmony Picnic 2017
Multicultural Action Plan
2017-2020
1
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY
Adelaide Hills Council (AHC) recognises the Peramangk and Kaurna as the region’s first people. We respect
their ongoing relationship with the land and are committed to working together to ensure their culture and
traditions are preserved.
BACKGROUND
At an AHC meeting in 2015, Councillor Nathan Daniell brought a motion that the Council become a declared
Refugee Welcome Zone. This is an initiative of the Refugee Council of Australia. It is a commitment in spirit
to welcoming refugees into the community, upholding the human rights of refugees, demonstrating
compassion for refugees, and enhancing cultural and religious diversity in the community. The motion was
carried unanimously by the Councillors and the Refugee Welcome Zone declaration was signed by Mayor
Bill Spragg at a public signing ceremony.
In 2016 AHC researched what being a Refugee Welcome Zone means for the Council and how this could be
achieved. This resulted in the Refugee Welcome Zone report. The key recommendation of the report was
for AHC to develop a Multicultural Action Plan that outlines the specific projects and activities relating to
the Refugee Welcome Zone declaration and other Council strategies that have similar aims.
STRATEGIC CONTEXT
The importance of diversity and inclusivity is recognised in AHC’s strategic plan Your Adelaide Hills,
adopted October 2016:
GOAL 2 – ACTIVITIES AND OPPORTUNITIES TO CONNECT
Strategy 2.2: We recognise diversity in the community is one of our greatest strengths and we will
support and promote opportunities for social inclusion.
What success looks like: A welcoming and inclusive community where people support, respect and
celebrate each other for their differences as much as for their shared values.
“The Adelaide Hills is a place for everyone. To be welcoming and respecting of individual uniqueness we
must strive to understand, accept and value differences.”
In addition, the Community Strategy 2015-2020 recognises cultural diversity specifically:
GOAL 2 – COMMUNITY WELLBEING
Strategy for cultural diversity: Strengthen the focus on understanding and promoting cultural diversity
within the Adelaide Hills including –
Working with culturally and linguistically diverse communities to establish activities
and events that are inclusive to all people in the community
The continued provision of access to hard copy and online resources in languages
other than English through the libraries
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this Multicultural Action Plan is to progress the above strategies by outlining the specific actions
to be taken. The term ‘cultural diversity’ is used in the Action Plan to refer to the cultural, linguistic and
religious diversity that exists in the Adelaide Hills region.
2
The Multicultural Action Plan addresses cultural diversity in the context of non-Aboriginal culture.
Recognising and celebrating Aboriginal culture and heritage is addressed under Councils Reconciliation
Action Plan. These Action Plans are expected to work together towards achieving Councils strategic
objectives in relation to cultural inclusivity.
Adelaide Hills residents come from more than 50 countries, speak more than 35 languages and follow more
than 30 religions. Since the 1830s migrants have been settling and working in the Adelaide Hills and this
continues today with nearly 500 new arrivals to Australia settling in the area in the last five years. Cultural
diversity has brought, and continues to bring, significant economic, social and cultural benefits to the
community.
This Action Plan embraces three broad goal areas in relation to cultural diversity:
Recognise
Support
Lead
Each goal area contains four to six objectives. Under the objectives are listed specific actions, of which
there are 48 in total.
The actions have been developed from those recommended in the Refugee Welcome Zone report, as well
as by conducting further research into best practice. Meetings were held with staff members from across
AHC to develop actions relevant to the following areas:
Community Development
Libraries & Customer Service
Open Space
Economic Development
Communications & Events
Organisational Development
Focus
The actions relate to Council’s internal operations (i.e. within the organisation) and external operations (i.e.
within the community). The relevant focus has been identified alongside each action.
Area
A ‘whole-of-council’ approach is adopted in this Action Plan. While the Community and Cultural
Development Officer is responsible for the Multicultural Action Plan, implementation will require input
from other areas across AHC. Key owners have been identified alongside each action.
Timeframe
This Multicultural Action Plan will be delivered throughout 2017-2020. It will then be evaluated and a
further plan developed for 2021 and beyond. Timeframes specific to each action have been identified.
Budget
Much of the Action Plan relates to Council’s ordinary business and will not require additional funds and
resources beyond existing budget. Where additional funds and resources are required for new initiatives
this has been identified and budgeted for.
3Goal 1: RECOGNISE
While the Adelaide Hills is not as culturally diverse as greater Adelaide, it still contains a high level of cultural diversity. Research has shown that the
Adelaide Hills community is largely unaware of this. It is therefore important to raise awareness of the cultural diversity that exists and celebrate this as a
valued aspect of our community. Fostering respect for difference contributes to preventing discrimination and building social cohesion.
REF. ACTION FOCUS AREA TIMEFRAME BUDGET
Objective 1.1: Recognise the high level of cultural diversity in the Adelaide Hills and its benefits
Provide information on the AHC website about the cultural diversity in the area and the
1.1.1 External Communications & Events 2017 Existing
benefits this brings to the community
Develop proactive communications that highlight the cultural diversity in the area and the
1.1.2 External Communications & Events 2018 - 2020 $5,000
benefits this brings to the community
Reflect the cultural diversity of the community through descriptions of the area and imagery
1.1.3 External Communications & Events 2017 - 2020 Existing
used throughout AHC publications
Include information about the cultural diversity in the area during cultural awareness Organisational See Action
1.1.4 Internal 2017 - 2020
training for AHC Elected Members, staff and volunteers – see Action 3.1.1 Development 3.1.1
Objective 1.2: Recognise the migration history of the Adelaide Hills and its benefits
Provide information on the AHC website about the migration history of the area and the
1.2.1 External Communications & Events 2017 Existing
benefits it has brought
1.2.2 Support local initiatives that recognise migration as part of the heritage of the area External Community Development 2017 - 2020 $5,000
1.2.3 Encourage migration heritage projects through the Arts and Heritage Hub in Lobethal External Community Development 2017 - 2020 Existing
4Objective 1.3: Recognise individuals and groups from culturally diverse backgrounds in the Adelaide Hills
Review AHC Citizenship Ceremonies to explore opportunities to celebrate cultural diversity
1.3.1 External Communications & Events 2018 Existing
and the benefits it brings to the community
Identify and map cultural, religious and linguistic stakeholders in the area to facilitate
1.3.2 External Community Development 2018 Existing
relationship building and inform planning
Recognise contributions made to the community by individuals or groups from culturally Communications & Events,
1.3.3 External 2017 - 2020 Existing
diverse backgrounds through initiatives such as the Australia Day awards and Hills Treasures Community Development
Develop proactive communications that highlight contributions made to the community by
1.3.4 External Communications & Events 2018 - 2020 $2,500
individuals or groups from culturally diverse backgrounds
Objective 1.4: Recognise cultural diversity through events and programs
Participate in local, state and national cultural diversity events including Harmony Day and External & Communications & Events,
1.4.1 2017 - 2020 Existing
Refugee Week Internal Community Development
Incorporate cultural diversity themes into events and programs under community centres,
1.4.2 External Community Development 2017 - 2020 Existing
libraries, youth development and other areas of community development
Encourage and assist community groups to hold and promote events and activities
1.4.3 External Community Development 2017 - 2020 Existing
recognising cultural diversity
5Goal 2: SUPPORT
Recognising cultural diversity in the community helps people with culturally diverse backgrounds feel welcomed. However, more direct support is often
required, especially for those who have recently arrived in Australia. Those who live in rural or semi-rural areas like the Adelaide Hills face additional
challenges such as small numbers, dispersion of the population and access to transport. Language can also be a major barrier. Adequate and appropriate
support will assist with ease of settlement, building confidence, developing support networks and combating isolation. As local government offers the most
direct access to the workings of Australian democracy, supporting equal access is extremely important. Established communities in the Adelaide Hills that
are welcoming new residents may also need support in adapting to change. Assisting the different groups to build positive relationships is key to building
social cohesion.
REF. ACTION FOCUS AREA TIMEFRAME BUDGET
Objective 2.1: Support new arrivals to Australia who settle in the Adelaide Hills
Libraries & Customer
Stay informed about new arrival communities through observation, businesses that employ Service, Economic
2.1.1 External 2017 - 2020 Existing
skilled migrants, the Federal Government’s Settlement Database and Census data Development, Community
Development
Engage with new arrival communities to inform them of AHC’s role and services, and to
2.1.2 External Community Development 2017 - 2020 Existing
identify further support that may be required
Engage with local communities to identify support that they may require to welcome new
2.1.3 External Community Development 2017 - 2020 Existing
arrivals
Collaborate and partner with other organisations to build capacity in responding to the
2.1.4 Internal Community Development 2017 - 2020 Existing
needs identified through Actions 2.1.2 and 2.1.3
Communications & Events,
Identify and make available written resources for new arrivals through the AHC website, Libraries & Customer
2.1.5 External 2018 Existing
libraries and community centres Service, Community
Development
6Objective 2.2: Support people from culturally diverse backgrounds to access AHC communications and services
Research how to best communicate with people from culturally diverse backgrounds in the
2.2.1 External Communications & Events 2018 $2,500
Adelaide Hills
Develop targeted communications to reach people from culturally diverse backgrounds in
2.2.2 External Communications & Events 2018 - 2020 $2,500
the Adelaide Hills based on the research conducted in Action 2.2.1
Document bilingual AHC Elected Members, staff and volunteers who are willing to assist with Organisational
2.2.3 Internal 2018 Existing
informal translating or interpreting where necessary Development
Register with the Federal Government Translating and Interpreting Service to receive free Libraries & Customer
2.2.4 Internal 2018 Existing
formal translating and interpreting services where necessary Service
Include information about the bilingual database and Federal Government Translating and
Organisational See Action
2.2.5 Interpreting Service during cultural awareness training for AHC Elected Members, staff and Internal 2017 - 2020
Development 3.1.1
volunteers – see Action 3.1.1
Encourage staff and volunteers to provide more time and personalised customer service to
Libraries & Customer
2.2.6 clients who do not have a strong command of the English language or are new arrivals to Internal 2017 - 2020 Existing
Service
Australia, and incorporate this formally into AHC’s Customer Service Framework
Libraries & Customer
Increase promotion of free library resources that are available in other languages and have
2.2.7 External Service, Communications 2018 - 2020 Existing
cultural diversity and inclusivity themes
& Events
Objective 2.3: Support people from culturally diverse backgrounds to have a voice in AHC’s decision making processes
Include people from culturally diverse backgrounds in AHC’s community engagement Community Planning &
2.3.1 External 2017 - 2020 Existing
activities Engagement
Encourage people from culturally diverse backgrounds to nominate for AHC’s committees Governance &
2.3.2 Internal 2017 - 2020 $1,000
and advisory groups Performance
Encourage Elected Members to be representative and inclusive of people from culturally Governance &
2.3.3 Internal 2017 - 2020 Existing
diverse backgrounds Performance
7Objective 2.4: Support culturally diverse initiatives in the Adelaide Hills
2.4.1 Consider cultural diversity in AHC’s grant giving programs Internal Community Development 2017 - 2020 Existing
2.4.2 Investigate a multicultural ambassadors program External Community Development 2019 Existing
8Goal 3: LEAD
AHC can show leadership by recognising and supporting the cultural diversity among staff, volunteers and Elected Members. Capacity to engage
appropriately with cultural diversity can be built on through raised awareness and understanding. Cultural diversity should be incorporated into all aspects
of AHC’s business to create “a welcoming and inclusive community where people support, respect and celebrate each other for their differences as much as
for their shared values” (AHC strategic plan Your Adelaide Hills adopted 2016). Nearly 20 percent of Australians have experienced discrimination because of
their race or religion. Local government can play an important role in building a community which does not tolerate discrimination. AHC is already a leader
as a declared Refugee Welcome Zone.
REF. ACTION FOCUS AREA TIMEFRAME BUDGET
Objective 3.1: Build AHC’s capacity to engage with cultural diversity
Organisational
3.1.1 Provide cultural awareness training for AHC Elected Members, staff and volunteers Internal 2017 - 2020 $2,500
Development
3.1.2 Stay informed about changes to the cultural diversity of the area through Census data External Community Development 2017 Existing
As appropriate, collaborate and partner with organisations specialising in cultural diversity
3.1.3 such as Multicultural Aged Care, Multicultural Youth SA and Multicultural Communities Internal All areas 2017 - 2020 Existing
Council of SA
As appropriate, collaborate and partner with other Councils and the Local Government sector
3.1.4 External All areas 2017 - 2020 Existing
on initiatives that build capacity in this area
Objective 3.2: Recognise and support cultural diversity among AHC Elected Members, staff and volunteers
Assess AHC’s workplace cultural diversity performance, for example by using the Workplace Organisational
3.2.1 * Internal 2018 Existing
Cultural Diversity Tool provided by the Australian Human Rights Commission Development
Organisational
3.2.2 Develop and implement actions based on outcomes of the assessment in Action 3.2.1 Internal 2018 - 2020 Unknown
Development
Governance &
Identify and implement measures that better enable and promote participation in AHC’s
3.2.3 Internal Performance 2019 - 2020 Existing
governance and volunteering by people from culturally diverse backgrounds
Community Development
9Provide opportunities for AHC Elected Members, staff and volunteers to share and celebrate
3.2.4 Internal Community Development 2018 - 2020 Existing
their cultural background
Objective 3.3: Showcase the Adelaide Hills as a Refugee Welcome Zone
Provide information on the AHC website about the area being a declared Refugee Welcome
3.3.1 External Communications & Events 2017 Existing
Zone
Community Development,
Display the Refugee Welcome Zone declaration prominently in AHC community centres and
3.3.2 External Libraries & Customer 2017 Existing
libraries
Service
Engage with refugee and asylum seeker organisations to promote the Adelaide Hills as a
3.3.3 External Community Development 2018 - 2020 Existing
destination
Create opportunities for Adelaide Hills residents to connect with refugee and asylum seeker Communications & Events,
3.3.4 External 2018 - 2020 Existing
communities Community Development
Objective 3.4: Prevent discrimination in the Adelaide Hills
Sign up to the RACISM. IT STOPS WITH ME campaign of the Australian Human Rights Community Development,
3.4.1 † External 2019 Existing
Commission and publically announce it Communications & Events
Promote the RACISM. IT STOPS WITH ME campaign message through proactive External &
3.4.2 Communications & Events 2019 - 2020 Existing
communications to the community and within the organisation Internal
Promote the RACISM. IT STOPS WITH ME campaign message through events and programs
3.4.3 External Community Development 2019 - 2020 Existing
under community centres, libraries, youth development and community development
Include information about racism and taking bystander action during cultural awareness Organisational See Action
3.4.4 Internal 2019 - 2020
training for AHC Elected Members, staff and volunteers – see Action 3.1.1 Development 3.1.1
Objective 3.5: Embrace a ‘whole-of-council’ approach to cultural diversity
3.5.1 Ensure that cultural diversity is reflected in AHC’s strategic plan and planning processes Internal Strategic & Policy Planning 2017 - 2020 Existing
10Objective 3.6: Review and evaluate this Multicultural Action Plan
3.6.1 Annually review the progress of this Multicultural Action Plan Internal Community Development 2017 - 2020 Existing
3.6.2 Evaluate the effectiveness of this Multicultural Action Plan as a whole Internal Community Development 2020 Existing
Develop a Multicultural Action Plan for 2021 and beyond, taking into account the
3.6.3 Internal Community Development 2020 $5,000
effectiveness of this Multicultural Action Plan and the changing needs of the community
*
Workplace Cultural Diversity Tool
This tool has been developed by the Australian Human Rights Commission. Based on international best practice, it is a ‘how to’ guide to workplace cultural diversity,
designed to help employers make the most of a culturally diverse workforce. The tool:
offers practical steps to effectively manage a culturally diverse workforce
let’s organisations assess themselves against 30 measures of competence
provides a starting point for those considering a focus on cultural diversity
helps those committed to cultural diversity move towards best practice
The tool can be accessed at: http://culturaldiversity.humanrights.gov.au/.
†
RACISM. IT STOPS WITH ME campaign
This campaign has been developed by the Australian Human Rights Commission. It aims to:
ensure more Australians recognise that racism is unacceptable in our community
give more Australians the tools and resources to take practical action against racism
empower individuals and organisations to prevent and respond effectively to racism
The campaign asks organisations to pledge their commitment to tolerance and anti-racism by becoming formal campaign supporters. There are currently several hundred
supporters across Australia, including 60 local governments.
Supporter organisations agree to endorse the campaign message, promote the campaign and identify specific activities they will undertake in the anti-racism space. Within
these areas, the options are entirely flexible depending on the organisation’s resources and priorities. Signing up does not involve a financial commitment and does not
require the adoption of a specific policy, program or activity. The Commission will not audit activities or require organisations to report on what they are doing. Resources,
merchandise and information about how to sign up can be found on the campaign website: https://itstopswithme.humanrights.gov.au/.
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